Crime Prevention Advice

With the new session now started, I am writing to offer new students and new members of staff advice given previously on personal security. Below is information from the Crime Prevention Section of the Camden Borough Police. Some of the advice is quite basic and common sense, but I hope that overall it will be helpful.

Members of staff are reminded that UCL ID cards must be carried, and should ideally be worn, at all times whilst on UCL premises. Use or display of these cards is now required for access to a number of UCL buildings. In addition, security staff may ask for ID cards to be produced by people on UCL premises.

Members of staff should report the presence of unauthorised persons on UCL premises and any suspicious occurrence or findings immediately to UCL Security so that it can be investigated and a record can be maintained, the matter reported to the police and any other action taken as appropriate (phone 020 7679 2108 or 020 7679 3333, or internal extension 32108 or 33333). In an emergency, you can dial 222 from any UCL phone. Further information on security can be found on the UCL Security website at http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/security.

Consider Carrying a Personal Panic alarm. You can purchase these at the main campus shops or contact UCL Security Services or local Police for advice on where to purchase one. Make sure it is easily accessible e.g. pocket and not in a bag.

When travelling home alone at night by bus, always remain at a well lit bus stop.

If travelling by train or tube try to avoid sitting in an empty carriage.

If travelling by taxi always ensure that you use a black cab as these are licensed. A verified black cab will always have a registered licence ID number on the back of the vehicle.

If travelling by Mini Cab, always order it by phone using a licensed taxi company; try to keep a reliable taxi number in your bag or wallet. Before entering the cab always ask the driver who the cab is for. Never tell them your name first. Always sit behind the driver.

Staying Safe @ Home

A building that presents itself as unoccupied and insecure is far more likely to be targeted than one which is properly secured

Fit a security light over your front door.

Install timers which switch lights or radios on and off automatically.

Never leave a spare key concealed any where near the front door.

Do not label your house keys in case you lose them and they fall into the wrong hands.

Where possible, try to keep valuables out of sight from windows.

If you are away for extended periods:

Set your burglar alarm. If you do not have an alarm, consider investing a few pounds in a dummy alarm box.

Ask a neighbour to clear your letter box or doorstep when you are away.

If you are prepared to leave a key with a willing neighbour/relative, ask for curtains to be drawn and lights to be put on at night. If snow is on the ground a few footprints will make the house appear inhabited.

Encourage a neighbour to park on your drive.

Check your insurance policy. Some insurance policies for contents don't cover you if you are away for more than 30 days.